You can do many things with a Bloodhound. They are great long distance walkers, therefore, long hikes or walks are great. They can be playful and if started early, a puppy or older dog does like to play fetch. Things like catching a flying disc may not be for a Bloodhound, but every dog can be taught to do something if they like it. They like to go out hunting, tracking, and just laying around or resting.
Hiking and Walking With Your Bloodhound
Since Bloodhounds can walk for long distances, they love taking a long walk anywhere, whether you are hiking in the woods or walking around the block they will be happy to be going along. They will probably have more energy than you do when hiking or walking. You should take along some water if you plan to take a lengthy walk or hike.
Playing Fetch for Fun and Exercise
The Bloodhound puppy will be easily amused by just chewing on a ball, but if you take the time to show them how to play fetch, they can actually do it for long periods. You will be the one getting tired before they do! You could also play a game of hide and seek. Bloodhounds are good at finding things and this is a great way to test their abilities to seek out things. The simple things keep the puppy amused. The more time you have to play or do other activities with them, the less likely they are to have time to get into mischief.
Take Your Bloodhound Hunting
Even if you have not worked on hunting techniques, they still love the outdoors and do well going along on a hunting trip. If you have taught them the proper hunting techniques this is another way to bond and have fun together. Not only are they good hunters, but they are also good trackers if properly trained.
Exercise is Important
Keeping your Bloodhound in shape is important. They have shorter life spans than some other dogs, but you can help keep them healthy by providing opportunity to exercise. If they are having fun then they will keep doing things with you that are also good for them. If they are allowed to lie around all day, they could become overweight, which can cause some serious health issues.
It is not always easy to motivate an older dog, but with a little encouragement, they can get plenty of exercise to keep their weight under control. House dogs seem to need more exercise because when you are gone, they tend to sleep all the time and eat. If they do not have exercise, they will become lazy. A lazy Bloodhound is not as easy to take care of as one would think.
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